Divergence NZ Single Malt Virgin French Oak

From Dramfest 2020. This is the initial release of their three-year-old 100% New Zealand Single Malt Whisky. The new make spirit was crafted from 100% Canterbury-grown and malted barley, then mashed, fermented, and double pot still distilled. It was matured for over 2 1/2 years in a 50-liter virgin French oak barrel before being finished in a 20-liter micro barrel that had held Pedro Ximenez sherry, offering a New Zealand take on a classic sherry cask malt.

A nice drink. The color is dark for such a young whisky. It has abundant raisin, orange marmalade, and toffee flavors, along with a strong oak presence. The finish is short, suggesting a fairly young spirit.

This is intense. Smooth flavors of caramel, butterscotch, vanilla, and oak.

Quite enjoyable. Christchurch 2023